offical wwe thread

Trey Burnout said:

Might have to buy them again. Yeah their women's division rocked, I'll never forget Kudo's electrified barbwire match


I could go on and on about how this and discovering a untranslated pro wrestling manga influenced me to make a pro wrestling comic for my school's newspaper( that got rejected ) but I just love that match

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I'm going to give myself 30 minutes and watch that video. Thanks

wataru330 said:

Loving the joshi love right now!

Also; there are two (2) times his entire time 'E tenure that Daniel Bryan had shown glimpses of *Bryan Danielson's* brilliance.

1) choking out Cole

2) tonight's opening promo.

He's so much more comfortable now, & it shows.

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Bryan Danielson appreciates you saying that

Arcademan said:

I'm going to give myself 30 minutes and watch that video. Thanks

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My only complaint is that video didn't show the aftermath with the ladies talking about the match immediately after it happened, very emotional moment. I really do have to get that dvd again

King of the Death Match in case you forgot Trey.

synbiosfan said:

King of the Death Match in case you forgot Trey.

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Yes that was it!! Thanks, looking it up now Torn To Shreds out of the bunch I had was my absolute fav. Nice to know the prices for pretty much all of them aren't insane with only two being in the $50 bucks area

The last one I got, The Judgement, I won in an auction for $23

Nice

WWE Smackdown Results: 1-27-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Parks' complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 – CODY RHODES vs. JUSTIN GABRIEL

During Rhodes’ entrance, they showed an inset interview where he talked about granting Justin Gabriel a non-title rematch from last week. He said after tonight, Gabriel will be able to tell his grandkids that he lost to the man who would go on to headline Wrestlemania. Cole’s newest target is apparently Gabriel, who he called a “goofball.” Right off the bat, Rhodes hit an Alabama slam for two. Side Russian leg-sweep by Rhodes, then an arm-bar. Monkey-flip by Gabriel as Cole talked about Cody’s solid performances in Rumbles past. The fight went to the outside, but quickly back in. Springboard cross-body, but a roll-through by Rhodes for two. STO by Gabriel, but he came up lame on a springboard moonsault attempt where he landed on his feet. Beautiful Disaster kick, then Cross Rhodes for the win.

WINNER: Rhodes, at 2:11. Rhodes went over strong, which was nice to see, even though they could’ve gone longer to give Gabriel more of a boost.

2 – DREW MCINTYRE vs. SHEAMUS

McIntyre was already in the ring. Josh Mathews brought up the fact that Sheamus and McIntyre both made their debuts at the TLC PPV in 2009 (contrary to the Wikipedia entry for this show, which has John Cena going over in every match except the Women’s Match), where Sheamus won the WWE Title and McIntyre won the IC Title. He talked of how their careers have gone in opposite direction since then. McIntyre came back at the 1:00 mark after Sheamus dominated the opening minute. Northern Lights suplex for two by McIntyre. McIntyre got frustrated at not being able to put Sheamus away, which gave Sheamus an opening to come back. Brogue Kick ended the match.

WINNER: Sheamus, at 2:50. Another win for Sheamus, another loss for McIntyre. Sun up, sun down.

3 – YOSHI TATSU & SANTINO MARELLA vs. PRIMO & EPICO

Rosa Mendes, as usual, accompanied the heels to the ring. Mendes gave an inset interview earlier in the day and did it all in Spanish. Tatsu and Marella kept bowing back and forth to each other before the match. Marella rode Primo on the mat and had a little fun spinning around Primo as well. Tag in to Tatsu, who I’m disappointed has ditched the darker gimmick he had on NXT. Blind tag to Epico, who hit Tatsu from behind. Crowd chanted for Yoshi as he countered a neck-breaker into a backslide for two. Marella tagged back in and hit Epico with rights. Diving headbutt found the mark, but Primo broke up the pin. Tatsu came in but got clotheslined out. Cobra on Primo, but Backstabber by Epico on Marella for the win.

WINNERS: Primo and Epico, at 2:16. Hey, a third tag team in the division! Wonder if that’s a permanent team or not. Based on this result, it would not appear to be so.

- Wade Barrett came out for the first of two main events. Barrett took the mic before the match and talked about Orton’s return. He said Orton’s ego has gotten the best of him and while doctors say he’s physically fine to return, spiritually, Orton is a broken man. Barrett cued up the Tron to show why he said Orton won’t be showing up. They showed highlights of the Falls Count Anywhere match from last month. Barrett said Orton had fallen and he couldn’t get up. He said Orton’s voices in his head are telling him what a vicious competitor Barrett its. Orton’s music interrupted before Barrett could rant any more. Orton was shown walking through the entire backstage area on the Tron.

Barrett met Orton on the aisle and they went after each other. Orton tossed Barrett in the ring – I don’t see a ref – and the two men continued brawling there. Referees emptied out of the locker room as the brawl went to ringside. Teddy Long came out and waved out Curt Hawkins, Tyler Reks, and Trent Barreta to try to help calm the situation. They held Orton back but the two men got loose and brawled in the ring. The Usos ran out too and Barrett was able to retreat. Aw, no agents to break it up. Orton stared at Barrett from in the ring, then RKO’d Reks, who was standing next to him. Saw that coming. Hawkins got in his face and argued, so Orton RKO’d him too. Barreta got too close and he got RKO’d. Both Usos did too. Well that’s just dumb – I’d be getting out of the ring before he could RKO me. They gave a close-up on Orton’s eyes as they went to break. Suffice to say…no match.

4 – HUNICO vs. TED DIBIASE

Camacho came to the ring with Hunico, and they showed highlights of the Flag Match from last week. DiBiase’s wrist was heavily taped after getting injured in a live event last week. Hip-toss by DiBiase, then a clothesline and a boot for two. Hunico went after the wrist and arm. DiBiase tried to come back with Dream Street, to no avail. Hunico landed the Olympic Slam variation for the win.

WINNER: Hunico, at 1:31. Another solid, yet short match from these two.

After the match, Hunico and Camacho continued to beat on DiBiase, and Camacho put DiBiase’s arm on the steel steps so Hunico could step on it.

5 – ALEX RILEY vs. BRODUS CLAY

Riley was already in the ring. They showed William Regal on the receiving end of a cross-body in the dance-off. And they kept the boos in! Even Riley was getting down and dancing in the ring. Once the match began, Riley showed off his dance moves. In response, Clay did the leg shake. Suplex by Clay, then the corner charge and “What the Funk” for the finish.

WINNER: Clay, at :36. More dancing after the match as Clay seems as if he’s becoming more and more popular with the WWE Universe.

6 – NATALYA vs. AKSANA

Natalya turned around and apparently yelled for Tamina to come down, but Aksana rolled her up for a quick three.

WINNER: Aksana, at :06. Not much you can say about that. Feels a little like they wasted Aksana’s debut, but I’m sure she’s still not much in the ring, even after her stint on NXT.

Natalya locked Aksana in the Sharpshooter after the match, drawing Tamina out. She hit Nattie with the Samoan Drop, then connected on the Superfly Splash.

7 – THE BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY

Before the bell could ring to signal the start of the match, Daniel Bryan came out. He was all smiles, pointing to the World Title around his waist. Big Show got in a few early shots before Henry went to ringside. Show went after him and continued to pummel him with punches. Bryan was shown sitting in front of the announce table. Back in the ring, slaps to the chest of Henry. Henry fought back with rights but seemed to collapse as if he injured his leg. He appeared to be in pain outside the ring as they went to break 1:20 in.

The show returned with Lilian Garcia announcing Big Show as the winner, with Daniel Bryan taking a steel chair into the ring. Mathews explained that Henry made it back into the ring, but was counted out again soon after. The chair had no effect and Show tossed Bryan across the ring. Show had the chair stalking Bryan at ringside and Bryan tossed the title at Show, then hit kicked his knee and took the chair. Bryan clobbered Show with the steel chair at ringside.

WINNER: Show, via count-out, about 4:15 (match ended during break).

In the ring, Bryan locked in the LeBell Lock on Show. Show fought free and managed to chokeslam Bryan. He lined up for the right hand, but Bryan escaped the ring and retreated up the ramp. They replayed Bryan entering the ring with the chair after the match and the subsequent beating he gave Show. This has been an oddly-paced show. Show held the chair high atop the ramp as they faded out.

TNA Impact Wrestling Results: 1-26-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Turner's complete report). Condensed here to in-ring results only.

1 -- TARA vs. VELVET SKY vs. MICKIE JAMES -- three-way #1 contender match to Knockouts Title.

The girls started the match with a handshake until Tara threw out the first kick. Tara took Sky to the corner with some shoulder thrusts until Mickie made the save with a roll-up. Tara took the offensive again until Mickie put a stop to it which led into a commercial break.

The show returned with Sky hitting Tara with a monkey flip. Mickie hit a cutter-looking move on Tara that Taz referred to as a neckbreaker. Tara took Mickie down, only to miss a standing moonsault on James. Mickie went for a top rope Lou Thez press and connected on Sky. After using Sky as a weapon, Tara scored the pin on James with a move that resembled Brock Lesnar’s F5.

WINNER: Tara in 9:00.

2 -- ALEX SHELLEY vs. ZEMA ION

The announcers mentioned Alex Shelley’s absence being in part due to respect for Chris Sabin's inability to wrestle. As the bell rang, the crowd chanted for Shelley as the two wrestlers exchanged side headlocks intro arm drags. Ion wanted to “cut the cameras” as he was getting beat in the corner by Shelley. Ion hit Shelley with a neckbreaker after awkwardly throwing Shelley on top of the ropes. Shelley came back with a flying knee, clothesline, and dropkick combo. Shelley dropped Ion face-first into the bottom turnbuckle, but Ion came back with a DDT, then took to the ropes, only to a miss a 450 splash. Shelley took the opportunity to capitalize on Ion’s miss and hit the Sliced Bread for the win.

WINNER: Shelley in 5:00.

3 -- ANGELINA LOVE & WINTER vs. ERIC YOUNG & ODB

The participants made their way to the ring with Love and Winter coming out first. As Young and ODB came out, the show went to commercial break.

The participants in the match made a scene out of who was going to start out contest. Winter and Young eventually started the match while ODB spanked herself on the apron, much to the amusement of the crowd. Young did a cartwheel into a thumbs-up gesture to the crowd before hugging referee Earl Hebner in the corner. Young took his pants off, and then Winter tagged Love in. ODB tagged herself in and dropped Love with a clothesline.

ODB hit Love with a Bronco Buster in the corner, then Love regained the upper hand and tagged Winter in. Winter beat on ODB after putting her in a Tree of Woe, which led to a two count. ODB proceeded to pull out a flask and chug what the announcers referred to as whiskey. ODB hit a bunch of offense on Love that Winter tried to break up before Young intercepted her. They both went for the same move, but Young got dizzy. ODB got the pin on Love.

WINNERS: ODB & Young in 8:00.

4 -- TNA tag champion MATT MORGAN (w/Crimson) vs. SAMOA JOE (w/Magnus)

The match started with a chorus of “Joe” chants. The two men took the corner with Morgan landing chops before landing his leg drop drop over the top rope. Joe finally got some offense in out of the corner and took to the ropes to land a leg drop. Morgan tried fighting back until Joe eye-gouged Morgan, who came back with a few big clotheslines in the corners. Joe then kicked out of a pin after a sideslam. Joe came back with an inverted atomic drop that led to a standing senton off the ropes on Morgan. Morgan then beat Joe with a clothesline.

Post-match: Magnus threw Crimson into the steps, then Joe held Morgan down for Magnus to hit an elbow drop off the the top rope. Joe and Magnus made their way to back with another non-match "victory."

WINNER: Morgan in 5:00.

4 -- JEFF HARDY & JAMES STORM vs. TNA World Hvt. champion BOBBY ROODE & BULLY RAY -- Tables match

Hardy and Storm came out first, followed by Ray and Roode with each wrestler coming out individually. Jeremy Borash gave an introduction to each team with Hardy and Storm in the ring looking down on Roode and Ray on the outside.

Ray and Hardy went at it on a table set up outside, while Roode and Storm followed suit on the other side of the ring. The camera cut to a split screen shot to capture the action going on all over the Impact Zone. Roode hit a supplex on Storm on the ramp as Ray hit Hardy with a scoop slam on the mats near the ring. Storm made a comeback attacking both Ray and Roode until Hardy regained his bearings, joining Storm on the offense outside of the ring.

After coming back from break, Storm was shown spitting beer into Ray’s face. Hardy and Storm set up a table in the middle of the ring setting up an attempt to double suplex Roode through. Ray made the save and took them both down. Ray tried to back drop Hardy through the same table before Storm made the save. Storm took Ray to the outside before Roode made the save and then set up a table in the corner for Hardy. Hardy put the brakes on an attempted Irish Whip through the table that Ray intercepted.

Ray went for a big boot on Hardy, who moved out of the way, leading to Ray putting his own foot through the table. Roode helped Ray regain the offensive edge and then set up another table in the ring. Roode set Hardy up on the table as Ray took to the ropes for a body slam before Storm made the save. Roode took it to Storm on the top rope, getting the better hand, until Hardy hit the Twist of Fate on Roode and set him up on the table for Storm. Storm hit a cross body on Roode, putting him through the table for the win.

Post-match: Roode and Ray disposed of Storm and then double-teamed Hardy until Roode fed Ray Hardy on top of the turnbuckle for a top-rope powerbomb through the table. Ray looked over Hardy as Roode cherished the World Title.

WINNERS: Hardy & Storm in 14:00.

WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's ongoing report).

1 -- World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN vs. BIG SHOW vs. MARK HENRY -- World Title match -- steel cage match

Once the bell sounded, Bryan tried to escape, but the two big men yanked him down to the mat. Big Show then squished Henry in-between a cage wall and ropes with consecutive splashes. No, Henry did not fall out of the cage due to the "collapsing cage wall" gimmick. In the background, Bryan tried to run out, but Show grabbed him and landed a chop to the chest. Bryan avoided a WMD strike, but ate a cage wall from Henry. The two big men took turns trying to wear down Bryan while keeping the other at bay. Meanwhile, the announcers played up the Bryan/A.J. relationship.

Bryan suddenly came back with a DDT on Show, followed by a LeBell Lock. The crowd called for Show to escape, then Henry took care of it for Show with a kick to Bryan's head. Show suddenly KO Punched Henry, then made a cover, but Bryan made a desperation save. Bryan then tried a desperation escape to a strong reaction, but Show climbed to the top of the cage to grab Bryan. Show actually made it to a sitting position on top of the cage and tried to hold onto Bryan, but Bryan fell to the floor, winning the match.

Afterward, Bryan celebrated his "crafty" victory while Show remained stunned sitting on top of the cage. Bryan celebrated a bit longer before they cut to a replay of Show losing his grip on Bryan, leading to Bryan crashing to the floor to escape the cage and win the match. They went back to Show selling frustration and Bryan celebrating a World Series-like victory on the stage. PWTorch correspondent Michael Cupach noted Henry had to be helped to the back after the match due to his pre-existing injury.

WINNER: Bryan at 9:08 to retain the World Title. Fine opening match with good heat. The match appeared to be kept short due to Henry's limitations. (**)

WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12

2 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX & NATALYA & BELLA TWINS vs. KELLY KELLY & EVE & ALICIA FOX & TAMINA -- eight-Divas tag match

After the Cena video aired, Beth Phoenix's music played to bring out the heel Divas for an eight-Divas tag match. Kelly Kelly's music then brought out the face Divas, including Eve, who was selling concern over Zack Ryder's condition from Raw. On cue, the match settled into the heels wearing down a "distracted" Eve. Fox, then Kelly Kelly took hot tags and the action broke down, then spilled to the outside. Kelly got her shine with a big splash onto everyone. But, back in the ring, Beth nailed the Glam Slam on Kelly for the win.

WINNERS: Team Phoenix at 5:29.

WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12

3 -- JOHN CENA vs. KANE

Once the bell sounded, Cena tried to blast away with right hands to make this look like a fight more than a match. The crowd picked up a loud dueling chant that was heavy on "Cena Sucks" versus "Let's Go Cena." The match moved to the floor, where Cena rammed Kane into the guardrail. Kane sold a right knee injury before limping back into the ring. Cena immediately went for the Attitude Adjustment, but Kane fell on top of his back. Kane then went to work on Cena, trying to wear him down.

Cena found an opening with a drop toe hold, then went for a bulldog, but Kane flung him away into the ropes. Kane then ran over Cena with a big clothesline before Kane peered down at his hand, as if to sell he was thinking about his mandible claw-like maneuver. Kane tried the un-named mouth-stuffer, but Cena blocked. Suddenly, Cena transitioned into the STF center-ring. Kane flung him away, though, and dropped Cena with a sidewalk slam.

Next, Kane set up for and connected with a top-rope clothesline. Kane then measured Cena for a chokeslam, but Cena ducked and delivered a sit-out slam. Cena then called for the Five Knuckle Shuffle to loud boos, but Kane blocked the You Can't See Me part with a chokeslam tease. Cena escaped, but ate a big boot to the face. Kane made a cover, but Cena kicked out. The match moved up-top, where Cena blocked a superplex before connecting with a top-rope Five Knuckle Shuffle fist drop. Cena then wanted the AA, but Kane emphatically elbowed out before tossing Cena to the outside.

On the outside, Kane landed right hand blows as the referee applied a ten count in the background. As expected, the fight continued ringside with Kane ignoring the referee. Kane and Cena continued to brawl after the bell rang for a double count-out, then Cena blasted Kane with a portable light fixture along the entrance ramp. The fight moved to the stage area, then to the production area.

The fight spilled backstage, where Cena threw Kane into a row of trash cans. Kane went underneath a table, though, and retrieved a chair to jab into Cena's mid-section. Cena took a chair shot across the back, then another. Kane wasn't done, though, as he spotted Zack Ryder's locker room. He kicked down the flimsy door, finding Ryder alone in his wheelchair. Kane tried choking Ryder with his mandible claw before wheeling Ryder out of the locker room, past Cena. Kane scared away stagehands before wheeling Ryder back into the arena area. The cameras picked up Kane wheeling Ryder down the entrance ramp before throwing him out of the chair on the ground.

Kane flung Ryder into the ring, then Eve suddenly jogged into the ring. Eve begged Kane to have mercy on Ryder, but Kane lifted up Ryder and delivered a Tombstone Piledriver for a nostalgia pop. Eve covered her mouth and sold tears before Kane turned toward Eve. Suddenly, Cena re-emerged and charged the ring to blast away at Kane. He tried an AA, but sold a back injury. Kane then chokeslammed Cena mid-ring. Eve was left alone, but Kane decided his work was done and left the ring. Kane's music played and he disappeared to the back as Eve checked on a fallen Ryder.

Kane's music stopped, then referees, Eve, and WWE's ringside doctor were shown checking on Ryder. They went to a replay of Kane's destruction before returning to the ring, where Ryder was placed on a stretcher as Eve cried. In the background, Cena recovered as he watched Ryder being placed on a backboard. Booker solemnly said this could be the end of Ryder's career. A light "Cena Sucks" chant could be heard. WWE then faded to a BA STAR video package.

WINNER: Double count-out at 10:56. This was more of a match than expected, but the non-finish was expected. Clearly, the Cena-Kane feud will continue on TV until they hit the big WM28 hype.

WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12

Suddenly, Drew McIntyre's music played. No music video intro, though. Cole set up the back-story that McIntyre went to Smackdown GM Teddy Long earlier in the night to request a match tonight since he's not in the Rumble match. Brodus Clay's music then played to bring out the Funkasauras to face McIntyre. Ringside, McIntyre complained about Clay making a mockery out of his business.

4 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. DREW MCINTYRE

"Funk-a-sauras" chant when the bell sounded. Clay shook and jiggled to intimidate McIntrye, but Mac nailed him with strikes to drive Clay to the corner. Clay started to "Jiggle Up," though, and delivered his signature offense before nailing his "What The Funk?" finisher for the win. Cue up Clay and Funkettes with a post-match celebration.

WINNER: Clay at 1:05. Well, there you go.

WWE Royal Rumble PPV Results: 1-29-12

5 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER -- WWE Title match -- John Laurinaitis ringside enforcer

Once the bell sounded, Cole accused Booker of being jealous of Laurinaitis dating back to WCW and said Laurinaitis was a better "worker" than Booker. As for the match, Ziggler "showed off" early on, drawing a smirk from Punk. Punk tried a quick submission afterward, but Ziggler escaped to the ropes. Punk then knocked Ziggler to the outside and landed a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Ziggler cut off Punk and began wearing down the champ. Ziggler stalked Punk for a Fameasser, but Punk countered with a nice spinning sit-out powerbomb for a close two count.

The match reset with Punk landing a chop to the chest, then right hand strikes. Punk followed with a corner knee and running bulldog before calling for the GTS. Punk set up for his finisher, but Ziggler elbowed out. Ziggler and Punk then traded holds before Punk grazed Ziggler with a kick to the head for a two count.

Punk followed with a top-rope Macho Man elbow drop, but Ziggler kicked out in time. "Randy Savage" chant from the crowd, then the ref was bumped out of the ring. Laurinaitis tried checking on the ref ringside while Punk and Ziggler battled in the ring. Punk locked in his submission finisher and Ziggler tapped out, but there was no ref. Punk then released the hold and yelled at Laurinaitis, who said he's helping the ref. Punk then scored a visual three count, but still no ref. Laurinaitis dragged the ref back into the ring, then Laurinaitis took a kick to the head as Punk hoisted Ziggler into position for the GTS. Punk delivered the GTS again, then scored another visual three count. Punk argued with Laurinaitis, telling him he had the match won three times. Punk went for the GTS again, but Ziggler countered with a mid-air Zig-Zag. He made a cover, but Punk kicked out just in time of the ref's three count, drawing a big reaction for the nearfall. Ringside, Laurinaitis sold frustration.

Ziggler tried to follow up with right hands, but Punk scored with a catapult that sent Ziggler flying into the top turnbuckle. Punk followed up with the GTS and Punk made a cover. The ref began his count, Laurinaitis slid into the ring, and both men counted to three, giving Punk the win. The announcers debated whether Laurinaitis did that simply to keep his job tomorrow night or whether he's really a good man. They went to a replay of the various visual falls for Punk, Ziggler's close pin attempt, and Punk's eventual victory. Back live, Punk was shown sitting down in the ring with his title belt. On the stage, Laurinaitis flashed a smile and applauded.

WINNER: Punk at 14:32 to retain the WWE Title. Below expectations in terms of match length and reaching "show-stealing level" Punk and Ziggler talked about in interviews ahead of time. The match story involving Punk and Laurinaitis fit the TV build-up, but didn't feel like a PPV match. Ziggler essentially taking four losses shows where he stands in this program. PWTorch columnist Greg Parks pointed out in a tweet, "So, Ziggler had four wins over Punk coming into this one, and Punk had four pinfalls in that match. Even-steven." (**1/2)

That leaves over an hour for the Royal Rumble match. I'll update from time to time and post the full results in about an hour. Thanks.

2012 WWE Royal Rumble

Note that this post will be updated in the next hour without new posts added...

6 -- 30-MAN ROYAL RUMBLE MATCH

Cue up The Miz's music as the #1 entrant, per the final Raw before the PPV. Miz emerged through his "Awesome" bubble letters from WM27 last year as Cole declared that Miz will go coast-to-cast tonight. In the ring, Miz took the mic and said everyone backstage is laughing and snickering at him for being #1. He said those same people doubted him when he first set foot in WWE and he will prove everyone wrong tonight. Alex Riley came out as #2 to begin the match. After a brief exchange, Miz dumped Riley over the top rope, eliminating Riley. Miz then danced around in the ring, waiting for his next foe.

Conveniently, #3 was R-Truth, another former Miz tag partner. No eliminations, then #4 was introduced as IC champion Cody Rhodes. Booker grumbled as Rhodes charged the ring and delivered a Disaster Kick to Truth. Rhodes and Miz then double-teamed Truth before Rhodes pointed to the WM28 banner. No eliminations, then #5 was Justin Gabriel to no reaction. Gabriel tried some offense, but Rhodes quickly cut him off. No eliminations, then #6 was Primo. No sign of Rosa Mendes, which Lawler of course pointed out on commentary. In the sea of humanity, Miz chucked Truth over the top rope for an elimination at 7:12. Truth popped up, though, and yanked Miz under the bottom rope to deliver his finisher. Miz was not eliminated, though.

At #7 was Mick Foley, who emerged to a strong reaction. Foley, sporting a red flannel shirt and Cactus Jack t-shirt, popped Primo with right hands. Foley then eliminated Primo, earning his first elimination of the night. Foley followed with a corner knee to Rhodes's head before delivering a double-arm DDT. Next up at #8 was Alberto Del Rio returning from a one-month absence due to injury. Instead of Del Rio, though, it was Ricardo Rodriguez in a beat up car doing Del Rio's gimmick. So, Ricardo is the official #8 entrant. Ricardo did Del Rio's shtick before slowly entering the ring. "Ricardo, Ricardo" chant as he approached Gabriel and Foley before pounding away on Rhodes. Suddenly, Ricardo and Foley double-teamed to eliminate Gabriel at 11:26.

Santino came out at #9, setting up a battle between Santino and Ricardo. They did a comedy bit rolling across the ring before Santino gave Ricardo a wedgie and tossed him over the top rope at 12:51. So, it was Socko vs. Cobra with Miz still on the outside. Foley and Santino dueled with their respective hand-puppets before #10 was revealed as Epico. Epico was promptly eliminated by Foley's Socko at 13:56. Foley and Santino tried to resume their duel, but Rhodes and Miz jumped them. Rhodes eliminated Santino at 14:28, then Rhodes eliminated Foley at 14:47. That left Miz and Rhodes in the ring before #11 was revealed as Kofi Kingston. Kofi tried to eliminate Miz, but Rhodes helped out Miz.

At 16:30, #12 was revealed as Jerry Lawler, who stripped off his non-wrestling gear and left the announce table to enter the Rumble. Lawler and Miz resumed their feud from last year and the end of 2010 before Lawler went up top for a fist drop on Miz. Suddenly, Rhodes dumped Lawler over the top rope at 17:31. "Dammit!" Booker said. Next, #13 was revealed as Ezekiel Jackson. Zeke stormed the ring as Lawler returned to the announce table. No eliminations, then #14 was Jinder Mahal to an even smaller reaction than Gabriel. Jinder took a good, long walk to the ring as they hit the 20:00 mark. No eliminations.

At #15, Great Khali made his big return right after Jinder's entrance. Khali waddled to the ring to resume his feud with Mahal, but not after chopping down the other Rumble entrants. Khali then dumped out Mahal at 21:40. Ezekiel Jackson was the next cut at 21:55. The crowd came to life for #16, which was Hunico on his lowrider bike. In the ring, Hunico flew at Kingston before delivering some high-impact offense. No eliminations, then #17 was Booker T, who stood up, took off his dress clothes, and hit the ring, much to Cole's chagrin. Booker went after Rhodes, then came face-to-face with Khali's gut. "Booker T" chant as the six men in the Rumble traded control. For this year's John Morrison Spiderman moment, Miz dumped Kofi over the top rope, but Kofi did a handstand across the ring, hit the ring steps, and re-entered the ring to avoid elimination. Big reaction for Kofi's feat.

At #18, Dolph Ziggler entered the ring fresh off a WWE Title match loss. Cole resumed his praise for Kofi avoiding elimination as Ziggler worked on Kofi. No eliminations, then #19 was revealed as Hacksaw Jim Duggan to a huge nostalgia reaction. Duggan promptly cleaned house to "USA" chants before clotheslining Hunico. Duggan got in his spots, but Rhodes eliminated him at 28:31. Booker and Khali were then eliminated simultaneously by Rhodes and Ziggler at 28:55. At #20, Michael Cole excitedly had his name called. Cole dropped his clothes, put on his amateur wrestling gear, and hit the ring as Booker joined the announcers. Cole proudly entered the Rumble, pointed to the WM28 sign, posed in the ring, danced around, and waited for someone to face him.

At #21, Kharma's music played to a big reaction. And here comes Kharma back in a WWE ring. Cole started crying as Kharma approached him and dropped him. Booker went nuts as Kharma stalked Cole before Booker and Lawler yanked Cole out of the ring at 31:25. Suddenly, Kharma dropped Ziggler with a butterfly suplex, prompting Vickie Guerrero to confront her. No matter, as Kharma eliminated Hunico at 31:55. But, Ziggler eliminated Kharma from behind at 32:02. Out next at #22 was Sheamus, who cleaned house on folks. Sheamus then cut Kofi at 33:12. Next, Rhodes took ten forearm strikes to the chest. Miz was next to take the strikes to the chest.

At #23, Road Dogg Jesse James returned to action. Dogg, in DX gear, cleaned house on the heels before delivering rapid-fire jabs to Rhodes. Miz then took a pumphandle slam. Dogg got in his signature moves and remained in the match past another entry. At #24, Jey Uso came out, accompanied by Jimmy Uso. Cole name-dropped Rikishi as Uso landed a corner splash on Dogg. No eliminations, then #25 was revealed as U.S. champion Jack Swagger to groans. Swagger joined the group, which still included #1 Miz. No eliminations. At #26, Wade Barrett came out to random new music. It does not fit Barrett at all. Barrett stormed the ring and attacked everyone in the ring before dumping Road Dogg at 39:05. Down to the final four entrants, starting with David Otunga as #27. Otunga took his sweet time entering the ring as Cole noted they hit the 40:00 mark with Miz still in the Rumble.

Out next at #28 was Randy Orton to a huge pop in Orton's hometown. Business picked up real quick with Orton storming Barrett and cleaning house. Rhodes cut off Orton, but Orton set up Rhodes and Ziggler for a double spike DDT from the second rope. Uso tried to get Orton, but Orton chucked him out at 42:37. Orton then tossed Barrett at 42:45. And, out at #29 was Chris Jericho after the lights went out in the arena momentarily. Jericho then promptly tossed Otunga at 43:33. The men remaining in the ring struggled for eliminations leading to the final entry.

And, out last at #30 was Big Show. No Cena, Kane, or Henry. Show stormed the ring and Swagger was eliminated at 45:08, then KO Punched by Show. In the ring, Show eliminated both Miz and Rhodes at 45:40. Show then tossed Ziggler at 45:55. And, the Final Four is Sheamus, Jericho, Big Show, and Orton. The other three tried to gang up on Show, but Show fought them off. Orton suddenly dropped Show with an RKO, though. Suddenly, Orton lifted Show up and over the top rope at 47:11. Jericho then tossed Orton right after at 47:16, shocking the hometown crowd. So, it was Jericho vs. Sheamus.

Jericho and Sheamus circled the ring as the camera focused on the WM28 banner hanging atop the arena. Jericho pointed to the logo, then the two men circled each other again. Sheamus landed elbow strikes, then Sheamus teased eliminating Jericho, but Jericho held on to the top rope. Jericho avoided elimination, then came off the top rope with a missile dropkick. At 50:00, Sheamus came back with an Irish Curse backbreaker, then tried a Celtic Cross over the top rope, but Jericho blocked. Jericho then clotheslined Sheamus, but Sheamus held onto the top rope. A step-up kick didn't eliminate Sheamus, either.

Jericho reset, but Sheamus launched himself with a springboard shoulder tackle from the ring apron back into the ring. Sheamus then tried to eliminate Jericho, but Jericho held on. A Brogue Kick missed, then Jericho slapped on the Walls of Jericho center-ring. Sheamus reached the bottom rope for a break, and Jericho saluted himself to boos. Jericho was nearly eliminated next, but Jericho pulled himself back into the ring. The action moved to the top turnbuckle and they crotched themselves, teasing a double elimination. Back in the ring, though, Jericho nailed the codebreaker. The crowd was hushed, anticipating a final elimination, which they teased again fighting near the ropes.

Sheamus held on to the top rope to avoid elimination, then Jericho slapped him across the face. Sheamus got The Look in his eyes and shoved Jericho across the ring, but missed with a Brogue Kick. Jericho went for another Codebreaker, but Sheamus blocked and tried to throw Jericho over the top rope, but Jericho held on. Jericho then balanced himself on the ring apron and Sheamus blasted him with a Brogue Kick. Jericho fell off the apron, landing on the floor, and Sheamus is the winner.

Post-match: Sheamus pointed to the WM28 banner before they went to a replay of the ending involving Jericho and Sheamus. Back live, Sheamus was shown celebrating as Cole asked which title Sheamus will go after. Fireworks shot off near the WM28 logo, then pyro shot off on the entrance stage behind Sheamus as he celebrated. Credits came on and the PPV ended at 9:47 p.m. CST.

WINNER: Sheamus at 54:54 to win the 2012 Royal Rumble. And, Jericho's tease of the "End of the World" falls flat. Just an okay Rumble before a strong finish. There were a few of the "memorable Rumble moments," but the Final Two seemed to come too soon and there were too many non-stars in this match, which exposed WWE's lack of roster depth. Assuming Sheamus doesn't "lose his WrestleMania spot" at the Chamber PPV or sometime else, it looks like Bryan vs. Sheamus for the World Title at WM28 on the Smackdown side. Or, WWE could switch the title to Henry and set up the Henry-Sheamus rubber match dating back to 2011. But, that's all to be sorted out in the weeks to come. (***1/2)

ORDER OF ENTRY

(1) The Miz
(2) Alex Riley
(3) R-Truth
(4) Cody Rhodes
(5) Justin Gabriel
(6) Primo
(7) Mick Foley
(8) Ricardo Rodriguez
(9) Santino
(10) Epico
(11) Kofi Kingston
(12) Jerry Lawler
(13) Ezekiel Jackson
(14) Jinder Mahal
(15) Great Khali
(16) Hunico
(17) Booker T
(18) Dolph Ziggler
(19) Hacksaw Jim Duggan
(20) Michael Cole
(21) Kharma
(22) Sheamus
(23) Road Dogg Jesse James
(24) Jey Uso
(25) Jack Swagger
(26) Wade Barrett
(27) David Otunga
(28) Randy Orton
(29) Chris Jericho
(30) Big Show

ORDER OF ELIMINATION

(1) Riley at 1:15 (Miz)
(2) Truth at 7:12 (Miz)
(3) Primo at 8:34 (Foley)
(4) Gabriel at 11:26 (Foley & Ricardo)
(5) Ricardo at 12:51 (Santino)
(6) Epico at 13:36 (Foley)
(7) Santino at 14:28 (Rhodes)
(8) Foley at 14:47 (Rhodes)
(9) Lawler at 17:31 (Rhodes)
(10) Mahal at 21:40 (Khali)
(11) Jackson at 21:55 (Khali)
(12) Duggan at 28:31 (Rhodes)
(13) Khali at 28:55 (Rhodes & Ziggler)
(14) Booker at 28:55 (Rhodes & Ziggler)
(15) Cole at 31:25 (Kharma)
(16) Hunico at 31:55 (Kharma)
(17) Kharma at 32:02 (Ziggler)
(18) Kingston at 33:12 (Sheamus)
(19) Road Dogg at 39:05 (Barrett)
(20) Uso at 42:37 (Orton)
(21) Barrett at 42:45 (Orton)
(22) Otunga at 43:33 (Jericho)
(23) Swagger at 45:08 (Show)
(24) Miz at 45:40 (Show)
(25) Rhodes at 45:40 (Show)
(26) Ziggler at 45:55 (Show)
(27) Show at 47:11 (Orton)
(28) Orton at 47:16 (Jericho)
(29) Jericho at 54:54 (Sheamus)

So the guy who hasn't been doing anything for months besides beat up on Jinder Mahal (and get eliminated by Hornswoggle in a mini-Rumble) gets the win and the title shot?

Scary thing is: since Sheamus is Smackdown, that still leaves open the possibility of John Cena-Rock being for the WWE title.

Eric said:

Scary thing is: since Sheamus is Smackdown, that still leaves open the possibility of John Cena-Rock being for the WWE title.

Click to expand...

Vince has already sead he doesn't want Rock/Cena for the belt, Rock doesn't even want it to be for the belt. Since the rumor was Punk/Y2J for Wrestlemania it looked like a lock for that until Sheamus with his no feuds won it. I guess this means Henry can finally sit out and heal from his injury while D-Bry defends against Show/Sheamus

Sheamus would be a good choice to take the Big Gold Belt.

He is over, does solid media interviews and can work a match with large or smaller guys.

I guess I can be positive and look at it as a chance to finally give Sheamus the direction he's been lacking since Christian's injury and now he can finally have a storyline to follow beyond just coming out once or twice a week to crush Jinder Mahal (I swear, the only loss I remember him having in the last 3 months was to Hornswoggle).

On the other hand, the fact that Sheamus is so over makes the Rumble win unnecessary for him as he seems to be one of a few guys in the company (including Cena, Orton, now Punk, and sadly HHH I'm sure) who could pretty much be thrown in a storyline for the title at will. Someone like Del Rio needed that win to solidify him as a contender but we know Sheamus has had the title before and with the way he can dominate it's no stretch to believe he can do it again.

Then again, we've seen what pushing a guy too soon can do so it might be for the best to have a legit contender set up for Wrestlemania (especially when Daniel Bryan is needing to be established in the WWE universe). Del Rio seemed to be forced to the top too soon and fans just don't care about him either way. Ziggler probably needs to drop Vickie (but while remaining a heel?) before being a legit top contender and last night's PPV was probably evidence of that as it seemed to be more about furthering the Laurinaitis-Punk storyline than it was about Ziggler-Punk.

Wade Barrett can't really be pushed right now because they seem to be tweaking his character (new finisher and all).

I guess I'm just sad Cody Rhodes isn't yet ready to be the Rumble winner. Probably the guy most deserving of moving up (more so than Ziggler).

PS: It will definitely be nice if it leads to less Big Show-Bryan matches.

WWE RAW Results: 1-30-12

Results courtesy of PWTorch.com (direct link to Caldwell's complete report). Condensed here to mostly in-ring results.

- Long opening with Laurinaitis, Punk, Bryan and Sheamus.

1 -- RANDY ORTON vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER (w/Vickie Guerrero)

Ziggler "showed off" with a Ric Flair strut, which Orton ignored before slapping on a headlock. Orton continued to dominate while the announcers continued to shoot questions to Mathews to ask Barrett in the skybox. Ziggler came back with a dropkick to the head, leading to a commercial.

Back from break, Cole was raving about the match-up, which he transitioned to a defense of Laurinaitis ahead of his "performance evaluation" tonight. Ziggler maintained control as Barrett continued to talk himself up. Orton then came back with a clothesline, but Ziggler avoided a second and delivered a dropkick for a two count. Ziggler channeled Scott Steiner with mid-match sit-ups (instead of push-ups) before climbing up top. He took too long, allowing Orton to crotch him. Vickie screamed ringside as Orton teed off on Ziggler with right hands. Orton then wanted a superplex (big reaction for the set-up) and he delivered his dad's finisher center-ring. Orton made a cover, but Ziggler kicked out.

Orton and Ziggler reset with an exchange of right hands before Orton delivered consecutive clotheslines into a powerslam, which Cole actually called correctly. Orton then wanted his second-rope DDT, but Ziggler slipped out and slapped on a sleeperhold. Orton escaped, then did a sweet roll-over into a roll-up for a nearfall. Ziggler delivered a kick to the knee, though, before delivering a Fameasser for a close nearfall. They cut to a shot of Barrett watching the match from the skybox before the wrestlers reset in the ring.

Orton delivered a clothesline taking Ziggler to the floor before throwing Ziggler into the guardrail. Back in the ring, Orton delivered a second-rope DDT as Vickie screamed and shouted. Orton then stalked Ziggler and delivered the RKO center-ring to a very strong reaction. Orton made the cover and it was good for the win. Post-match, they showed Barrett frowning atop the skybox ahead of their match-up on Smackdown. Orton posed in the ring before Cole plugged Champion vs. Champion between Punk and Bryan tonight. Also, the next inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame.

WINNER: Orton at 11:16. It's amazing what a month off can do for a banged-up wrestler, as Orton looked loose, fresh, inspired, and excited to be in the ring, and had an extra bounce in his step. Excellent match after the commercial and a hot crowd was fully invested in Orton. If this was the kick-start for Orton's run to WrestleMania, it was a hot start. (**1/2)

2 -- BRODUS CLAY vs. TYLER REKS

Clay jiggled and intimidated Reks with various shaking before accepting a boot to the face. Reks followed with a dropkick that took Clay down to one knee, but Clay started to Funk Up before delivering a belly-to-belly suplex. Clay followed with his "What The Funk?" body splash for the pin and the win.

WINNER: Clay at 1:04.

3 -- WWE champion C.M. PUNK vs. World Hvt. champion DANIEL BRYAN -- non-title Champion vs. Champion match

The match started with Bryan in control before teasing a surfboard stretch that he turned into a stomp. Bryan followed with a kick strike before slapping Punk across the face. Punk followed with a kick strike as Cole noted that Bryan's Chamber opponents will be announced on Friday's Smackdown. He added that the champions after the Chamber will defend their titles at Mania. Bryan regained control leading to the top of the hour.

The announcers started switching about Bryan, with Cole starting to warm up to Bryan based on being a vegan and Lawler mocking Bryan. The match moved to the floor, where the two men traded forearm blows. Bryan then tossed Punk over the guardrail into the front row as the referee's ten count continued. Punk made a desperation leap back into the ring just before ten to continue the match. Cole reset the action as Punk and Bryan traded control with both men back in the ring.

Bryan missed with a corner dropkick, then Punk made a cover for a two count. Punk applied a reverse chinlock as Cole went back to heeling on Bryan and Lawler went back to defending Bryan. Bryan then ducked a clothesline before the two men collided hard in the middle of the ring. Cole sent the show to commercial at 6:00 with Bryan and Punk selling the effects.

Back from break, Bryan had Punk secured in a submission lock. Bryan cockily bent Punk's fingers to apply more pressure before stretching the heck out of Punk's torso into a pin for a two count. Bryan stood up, smirked, raised his arms in the air, and went up top, but Punk crotched him. Punk then chopped away at Bryan's chest before climbing up top for a huracanrana after shouting "Best in the World" in Bryan's face. The two men came to their feet and Punk delivered knock-down offense, followed by a swinging neckbreaker. Punk connected with a corner knee followed by a bulldog.

Punk called for the GTS, but Bryan slipped out and bailed to the floor. Bryan shook his head, then turned around to take a baseball slide. Punk wanted a suicide dive, but Bryan intercepted with a forearm. Bryan then went up top for a missile dropkick that connected for a two count. Cole called it an even match-up since the get-go. Bryan then stalked Punk to deliver kick strikes to the chest. A fourth missed, though, and Punk rolled up Bryan for a two count. Bryan then came back with a standing huracanrana, but Punk rolled through into a roll-up for a two count. Bryan immediately came back with a kick to the head and scored a close nearfall.

A dueling chant picked up as Bryan dragged Punk to the corner and hoisted Punk up-top. Bryan wanted a superplex, but Punk blocked and headbutted Bryan to the mat. Punk then stood up on the top turnbuckle and signaled for the Macho Man elbow drop, which he connected with. Punk made a cover, but Bryan kicked out. Punk then tried the GTS, but Bryan countered with a crucifix pin for a nearfall. Bryan went right into the LeBell Lock, but Punk slipped out and catapulted Bryan into the corner. Punk followed with a swift kick to the head and Bryan slipped to the apron.

Suddenly, Chris Jericho stormed the ringside area, flung Bryan away for a DQ ending, and dropped Punk with a codebreaker in the ring. Jericho stared down Punk with an icy glare, then Justin Roberts actually gave the announcement of Bryan winning the match. Bryan's music played and he celebrated his victory on the way out of the ring. They went to a replay of Jericho's attack before Lawler note he doesn't understand that attack. They cut to a shot of Jericho on the stage smirking toward the crowd as Punk tried to recover in the ring.

WINNER: Bryan via DQ at 15:07. Excellent showcase of Punk and Bryan's skills in the ring. Just an excellent match before setting up the expected Punk-Jericho feud. When was the last time Raw had two excellent wrestling matches on the same show? (***1/2)

- Mike Tyson going to the WWE HOF, as reported earlier by TMZ and ESPN.

4 -- THE MIZ vs. KOFI KINGSTON

Miz and Kofi traded control as Truth talked up his Chamber chances. Miz then glared toward Truth, who laughed and said Miz looks so angry. Miz maintained control before Cole excitedly talked up Kofi's handstand to avoid elimination last night. Miz cut off Kofi's comeback with a snap DDT for a nearfall, then Miz mocked Kofi and missed with a corner attack.

Kofi followed up with a high cross-body block for a nearfall, before Miz and Kofi traded finishing move teases while the announcers completely missed the action. Kofi suddenly nailed Trouble in Paradise and made the cover for the win. After a replay, Kofi was shown celebrating in the ring before they went to a still-shot of Kofi's handstand during the Rumble last night.

WINNER: Kingston at 4:15. Very surprising clean result considering Kingston has been floundering with or without Evan Bourne the past few months. Right now, it just looks like renewed focus on Kingston leading to the Chamber, but perhaps it will turn into something more permanent for Kofi. (*3/4)

5 -- Divas champion BETH PHOENIX vs. EVE -- Divas Title match

Eve came out first and kept looking over her shoulder, nervous about Kane's whereabouts. Beth Phoenix took advantage of Eve's mind being elsewhere and quickly delivered the Glam Slam for the win.

WINNER: Phoenix at 0:30 to retain the Divas Title.

Post-match: The arena turned red and Kane appeared on the video screen to ask Eve how it feels to know everything that happened to Zack Ryder could have been avoided if John Cena just "embraced the hate." Kane said Cena continues to ignore him while looking ahead to The Rock at Mania. He said until Cena embraces the hate, he can't beat him and he can't beat Rock. So, he will continue inflicting as much pain as humanly possible on Ryder until Cena embraces the hate. Tonight, he's going to use Eve as a conduit to pass that message along. "Sicko," Cole muttered under his breath. Pyro and flames then shot off and the announcers said Eve is frozen with fear. No sign of Kane. Kane then snuck in the back door and scared Eve across the ring.

Suddenly, John Cena's music played and Cena stormed the ring to save the day. Cena blasted away at Kane, but Kane turned the tables. Then, Cena gained the advantage. Kane slipped out of the ring and the fight continued ringside. Kane gained the advantage, but Cena reversed a whip into the ring steps and Kane ate the steps. Cena then hoisted the ring steps into the air and ran the steps into Kane's left shoulder. Cena clenched his jaw and smiled before screaming at Kane to get up, leading to a second ring steps shot. Cena told Kane that every time he gets up, he's going to knock him down. Cena went for a third and connected. Cena then threw down the ring steps before tearing apart the announce table on the opposite side of the ringside area.

Cena grabbed a mic and popped Kane before announcing they're going to have a party up in here. Cena then dragged Kane to the announce table and went for the Attitude Adjustment, but Kane slipped out and hopped over the guardrail to run away. Cole said Kane is retreating through the crowd. Cena then jumped into the ring to celebrate as his music played and Kane disappeared to the back. Cole said Cena is in a zone and as "emotionally involved" as they have ever seen him. Cole said something happened to Cena last night at the Rumble and he snapped.

- Ending sequence with Laurinaitis and Triple H. Right as Trip was going to fire him, out pops...THE UNDERTAKER! Mandatory staredown between the two and we're done 17 minutes past the hour.

Why must they drag out the Ace firing or do HHH/Taker III

Because it's World wrestling ENTERTAINMENT

HHH being just self indulgent enough that you can legitimately believe that he'll book himself to end Taker's streak = suspense.

Plus the more times HHH and Punk can go out and put down Ace allows them to get some of the cheapest pops around these days.

norton9478 said:

Because it's World wrestling ENTERTAINMENT

Click to expand...

But it's not entertaining

i liked seeing seamus win the rumble (seamus is the peoper way to spell it, the H isn't necessary) but to me he seemed a bit unlikely as yeah he's not on a big push these days. but he's also one of those guys who's good enough to be in whatever story line and be good at it. also he's very popular here being that he's the only irish wrestler. so this win, and the gold belt will get him doing the TV circuit here again. which is good for the WWE for one, and good for him as well. i think giving him the title shot is a very smart move by the WWE. giving it to an irish wrestler would really help to extend their brand recognition in ireland, england, and the rest of europe for that matter, and really help them to boost ratings, viewers, and ticket sales here. if only there were someone from continental europe who could carry a big story, i'm sure that fella would have won i get the feeling with the amount of international wrestlers they have today the WWE is really trying to push its international presence. just glad it was the big ginger from up the road who won.


finally saw raw, the taker bit was pretty stupid actually. i'd have liked to see them fire johnny ace, and roll out a new GM. it would have been cooler had he sacked johnny and introduced the new GM as the undertaker. that would have been some amazing news. oh well. one can dream i guess.